Our choice

2.0 HDI 16V VTR+ 4dr

Specs we've tested

If ‘unsporty’ can ever be a compliment, it applies here. Resolutely wafty, and all the better for it…

2nd Dec 2009

What we say:

Charismatic and distinctive saloon that has failed to gain any recognition in the UK. It's a brave person who chooses one of these over a Passat

What is it?

Citroen’s take on the saloon market, and one which deserves a bit more recognition than it gets. it looks great for starters, and is now much more robust inside and out.

Driving

In some ways, the C5’s strongest point. The engines are all very quiet and the 2.0-litre HDI is the pick of the bunch. The C5 also wafts along nicely. But the steering is way too vague and the handling is sloppy.

On the inside

Unlike some rivals, you can’t get this as a hatchback, which limits its practicality a bit. But the build quality is good, and the dash looks OK.

Owning

As ever, you’d have to be a little crazy buying one new. The residuals still aren’t great, despite the C5 now being a much more robust car than any predecessors. The eco-diesel engine is good for company car tax drivers as it’s so clean.

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